4 Tips For Proper Rug Storage

As a flooring surface, rugs are forced to take a great deal of wear and tear. Yet, at the same time, when it comes to storing rugs, a heightened level of delicacy is required. To ensure your rug comes out of storage in the same condition it went in, keep these tips in mind.

1. Storage Unit

High moisture is never good for preserving the quality of the rug fibers, so you should start this process by choosing between a climate-controlled and non-climate-controlled unit. If the local climate is very humid or temperatures during most of the year are warm, such as the upper 70s and above, a climate-controlled unit may be the best option. If the climate is cooler most of the year, you may be able to get by with a non-climate-controlled unit.

2. Cleaning

Take a look at the label to see what material the rug is made of, as the material will determine how the rug needs to be cleaned. However, typically, the process will always begin with thorough vacuuming. Dust, dirt, and food particles can create an atmosphere for bacteria growth. Over time, bacteria can cause discoloration and they can even break down the material of the rug, which will shorten its lifespan. The main goal is to ensure the rug is clean before you put it into storage. 

3. Rolling

When you put the rug inside the storage unit, you never want to lie the rug flat, such as you would inside your home. Instead, you should roll the rug, and store it in an upright position. When you roll the rug, try to do so in a way that there are no creases. One way to go about this is to avoid rolling the rug too tightly, as you will end up folding the rug if you go about the process this way. 

4. Covering

If you will be storing the rug for a long period of time or it will be placed next to any objects that could potentially transfer color, ensure you cover the rug. Although plastic may come to mind, it should not be your first choice as it can increase the risk of moisture buildup. Instead, a new, clean moving pad or furniture blanket are better options to rely on. 

Make sure you follow these steps to prepare your rug for long-term storage to keep it in the best condition possible. 

For more information about self-storage, contact a local company.